Locust Avenue

Locust Avenue is a tidal kiteboarding launch in northwest Bellingham with shallow, mostly flat conditions that can chop up as the tide rises. The seabed and launch setup are strongly tide-dependent: low tide exposes extensive sand/mud flats and often requires a longer walk to reach the water, while higher tide can bring deeper water nearer the logs and driftwood along the upper beach. Wind is most often framed as southerly to southwesterly and storm-front driven, with commonly reported working directions from SE through SW. Typical wind strength is described in the 15–30 knot range, with moderate gustiness and overall moderate reliability that can shift with seasonal storm systems. Riders are advised to focus on S or SW conditions, and to verify forecasts and tide timing before committing. Safety planning is important here because the beach and shoreline approach can include rocks at low tide, barnacle-covered areas, and driftwood/log hazards, along with a trail down from parking that can be slippery. Cold water is a consistent factor (about 57°F in summer and 47°F in winter), so a full wetsuit or drysuit is generally treated as necessary year-round, with protective footwear recommended due to barnacles and sharp shells. On the facilities side, parking is available in gravel lots but can fill quickly on windy days, and there are no restrooms at the beach. Local rules and signage apply, including restrictions on camping, fires, smoking/vaping, alcohol, and motorized vehicles, as well as keeping dogs leashed and respecting nearby neighborhood access.